Mohan Bhulani, NTI: In a significant push to enhance air connectivity across Uttarakhand, the state government is launching new helicopter and airplane services for three key locations, set to commence just ahead of the state’s Foundation Day. This development includes an airplane service from Delhi to Pithoragarh, and helicopter services from Dehradun to Joshiyada (Uttarkashi) and Dehradun to Gauchar (Chamoli). A launch event has been scheduled for November 7, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami set to participate virtually.
Helicopter Services to Three Hill Stations
Efforts to initiate direct air service between Pithoragarh and Delhi have been ongoing for some time. Now, after successful test landings at Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh, a regular flight service will commence from November 7, 2024. The 42-seater Alliance Air aircraft will operate between Delhi and Pithoragarh, significantly reducing the journey time from 16 hours to just a few hours, while also encouraging tourism. With this new service, tourists will also find it more convenient to visit popular destinations like Adi Kailash and Om Parvat.
The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority has completed preparations for these services. The three routes—Delhi to Pithoragarh by airplane and Dehradun to Joshiyada and Dehradun to Gauchar by helicopter—are expected to greatly improve access to Uttarakhand’s hill stations. Helicopter flights from Sahastradhara Helipad to Gauchar and Joshiyada will also be inaugurated on November 7.
Last month, Chief Minister Dhami inaugurated a new passenger terminal building at Sahastradhara Helipad and had announced these helicopter routes would be launched soon. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and bolster the tourism sector in Uttarakhand.
